[SilasX]

That dynamic actually explains why all big-ticket retailers -- not just car dealers -- need to change business models to something like, "You pay for self-service showroom access to a variety of products, then make your actual purchase from [a level near] the OEM with minimal margin."

The only reason I tolerate(d) any interaction with car salesmen at all is the intangibles you get from a test drive. I would much rather just have some kind of option where I can try out car models at some place that doesn't have financial incentive to make me buy one of them.